Are you a vegan recipe enthusiast or someone curious about the uses of aquafaba? Well, have you ever wondered how long aquafaba lasts? For those unfamiliar with aquafaba, it is the liquid that is left when chickpeas are cooked or canned. This ingredient has become very popular among vegans as a substitute for eggs in various recipes. To help you understand how long aquafaba lasts, we have put together a comprehensive guide that answers every question you might have. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Aquafaba?
Aquafaba is the liquid that is found in a can of cooked chickpeas or the liquid obtained after cooking chickpeas. This viscous liquid is an excellent egg substitute in vegan cooking as it can be whipped and used in many dishes such as meringue, mayonnaise, cakes, and much more. Due to its versatility, it is quite popular among cooks, especially vegans who avoid using eggs. Aquafaba is full of protein, which is why it can be used in place of eggs in vegan recipes.
How to Make Aquafaba
To make aquafaba, you will need a can of chickpeas or dried chickpeas. If using dried chickpeas, make sure to soak them in water overnight, then cook them for 1-2 hours until they become tender. Drain the chickpeas and save the liquid. This liquid is what we call aquafaba, which can be used in various vegan recipes. The ratio of chickpeas to aquafaba should be around one cup of chickpeas to ¾ cup of aquafaba.
How Long Does Aquafaba Last?
As we all know, every food item has an expiration date, and so does aquafaba. However, the shelf life of aquafaba depends on various factors such as how it is stored, the temperature, and the time it was prepared. Generally, aquafaba can last for up to 4-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, if frozen or stored in the freezer, it can last for up to six months.
How to Store Aquafaba
If you want your aquafaba to last long, you must store it the right way. After preparing your aquafaba, allow it to cool down completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. You can use a clean jar, bottle or any container with a tight seal. Store the aquafaba in the refrigerator for up to four or five days. Ensure that you shake it well before use because it can separate into a compact layer.
If you want to store aquafaba for a longer time, for example, six months, you can freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to an airtight container or freezer bag, and label the date of preparation. You can easily defrost the aquafaba by placing the cubes in the refrigerator overnight.
Signs of Spoiled Aquafaba
Aquafaba, like any other food item, can go bad if not stored correctly. Therefore, it’s essential to know when your aquafaba has gone bad to avoid consuming it. Here are a few signs that your aquafaba might be spoiled:
- The appearance of mold
- An unpleasant odor
- A slimy texture
How to Tell if Your Aquafaba Has Gone Bad
If you’re not sure whether your aquafaba has gone bad or not, you can use your senses to detect any changes. If the aquafaba smells sour or has an unpleasant odor, throw it out. The same applies if you notice some mold growing on top of the aquafaba. If the texture of the aquafaba is slimy or sticky, then it’s not good to use.
The Uses of Aquafaba in Recipes
Aquafaba can be used as a egg substitute in many recipes. Its slightly eggy taste makes it ideal for vegan recipes that require an egg-like texture. Here are some popular recipes that you can use aquafaba in:
Meringue
Yes, you read that right! Aquafaba is an excellent replacement for egg whites in many recipes, including meringue. Simply whisk aquafaba until it forms stiff peaks, then fold it into your recipe. The results are a light and fluffy texture that is perfect for vegan baking.
Cakes and Cupcakes
Aquafaba can be used in cakes, muffins, and cupcakes as a binding agent. In most recipes, aquafaba is used instead of eggs, with one egg substituted by three tablespoons of aquafaba. This substitution does not affect the texture of the cake or cake batter.
Mayonnaise
Aquafaba can be used as a base for mayonnaise recipes. By blending it with lemon juice or vinegar, mustard, and oil, you can make a creamy and flavorful mayonnaise.
Pancakes
Aquafaba can be used to make fluffy and light pancakes. You can make them with gluten-free flour to create a vegan, gluten-free breakfast that tastes amazing.
FAQs
Here are some of the top questions asked about aquafaba and how long it lasts:
- How long can you leave aquafaba at room temperature?
- Can I freeze aquafaba?
- How do I thaw frozen aquafaba?
- Can you reuse aquafaba?
Aquafaba should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours as it is a natural breeding ground for bacteria. Therefore, it must be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator or freezer promptly after preparing it.
Yes, aquafaba can be frozen for up to six months. Simply pour it into an ice cube tray, then transfer the cubes to an airtight container or freezer bag. Ensure that you label the date of preparation so that you can keep track of its shelf life.
To thaw frozen aquafaba, place the cubes in the refrigerator overnight or run them under warm water. Never microwave frozen aquafaba as this can alter its texture and quality.
Yes, you can reuse aquafaba several times. However, every time you reuse it, the quality diminishes, and the egg-like texture may no longer be achieved. It’s best to use fresh aquafaba every time you cook or bake.
Conclusion
Aquafaba is a fantastic egg substitute that can be used in many vegan recipes, including mayonnaise, pancakes, cakes, and much more. It’s high in protein, which makes it an excellent healthy ingredient. When stored appropriately, aquafaba can last up to four to five days in the refrigerator and six months in the freezer, making it an ideal ingredient to have on hand when you need it. We hope this ultimate guide has helped you understand everything you need to know about aquafaba and how long it lasts.
References
https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-chickpea-aquafaba-236315
https://tastessence.com/aquafaba-recipes
https://gourmandelle.com/aquafaba/